DETECTIVES have launched a manhunt for a sex fiend who carried out a daylight rape on a 13-year-old girl.

He had followed his victim, who had been to a garage at about 2.45pm on Sunday and had then walked along Bury Road, Bamford, near Half Acre Road.

She saw the man standing in an alleyway, but carried on. He shouted at her to stop and started to chase her into Half Acre Lane.

AdvertisementHe grabbed hold of her and she was dragged screaming into an alleyway, where she bravely tried to fight him off. But he pushed her to the floor and carried out the assault.

The terrified youngster eventually managed to flee and raised the alarm.

She is now undergoing tests at St Mary’s Hospital in Manchester, while the police mount a search for the attacker.

Leading the investigation is Detective Chief Inspector Jeff McMahon, who said: "The victim has obviously been traumatised by this attack and is receiving plenty of support from her family at this difficult time.

"At the moment we are seeking witnesses and looking through CCTV footage.

"This attack happened in broad daylight so it is likely someone would have seen either the girl or her attacker."

Police are hunting an Asian man, between 5ft 9ins and 6ft tall, in his early 20s.

He had a shaved head and a beard and wore a dark hooded top with tracksuit bottoms.

Mr McMahon added: "While this is a nasty attack, I wish to reassure members of the public that this is a rare event.

"There is nothing to suggest that this man has carried out any previous attacks in this area.

"I would also like to reassure the community that we are doing all we can to catch this attacker."

Witnesses are asked to call 0161 856 8573 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.